Cloud Computing

Cloud computing refers to any kind of hosted service delivered over the internet. These services often include servers, databases, software, networks, analytics and other computing functions that can be operated through the cloud.

Files and programs stored in the cloud can be accessed anywhere by users on the service, eliminating the need to always be near physical hardware. In the past, for example, user-created documents and spreadsheets had to be saved to a physical hard drive, USB drive or disk. Without some kind of hardware component, the files were completely inaccessible outside the computer they originated on. Thanks to the cloud, few people worry anymore about fried hard drives or lost or corrupted USB drives. Cloud computing makes the documents available everywhere because the data actually lives on a network of hosted servers that transmit data over the internet.

The need of Cloud Computing

• One of the major reason why huge number of small scale and large scale business sectors from all over the world are using cloud today, is because of tremendous effect on cost saving. Yes, Cloud computing has made drastic change in the reduction of hardware and software cost and other server resources as well
• We can run all our workload data of applications and processes online over the internet remotely instead of using physical hardware and software
• Day to day issues related to server maintenance or installation of software/ hardware or whether it is renewal of license, all those factors are undertaken via cloud computing service providers
• With the help of cloud we can access any data, applications whenever and wherever we want to, over the internet. 100 of pre-configured applications can be install and updated
• Cloud not only handles data storage remotely but it also protects and recovers all crashed or loss data, so we don’t have to worry about crashed or loss of data, it gives you high security

Cloud Computing Service Types

Cloud computing services are broken down into three major categories: software-as-a-service (SaaS), platform-as-a-service (PaaS) and infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS).

Software-as-a-Service

SaaS is the most common cloud service type. Many of us use it on a daily basis. The SaaS model makes software accessible through an app or web browser. Some SaaS programs are free, but many require a monthly or annual subscription to maintain the service. Requiring no hardware installation or management, SaaS solutions are a big hit in the business world.

Examples of SaaS: Microsoft Office 365, Salesforce, Cisco WebEx, Google Apps

Platform-as-a-Service

PaaS is a cloud environment supporting web application development and deployment. PaaS supports the full lifecycle of applications, helping users build, test, deploy, manage and update all in one place. The service also includes development tools, middleware and business intelligence solutions.

Notable examples include Windows Azure, AWS Elastic Beanstalk and Google App Engine.

Infrastructure-as-a-Service

IaaS provides users with basic computer infrastructure capabilities like data storage, servers and hardware — all in the cloud. IaaS gives businesses access to large platforms and applications without the need for large onsite physical infrastructures.

Notable examples of IaaS include DigitalOcean, Amazon EC2 and Google Compute Engine.